MEANING
Hard rendered fat, especially from cattle or sheep, formerly used to make candles, soap, and lubricants.
Use it for
Use for historical candle-making, soap, or a greasy animal-fat texture.Ground a Gothic interior in the practical materials of an older household.
Words that belong together
- tallow candle
- rendered tallow
- tallow soap
On the page
A tallow candle guttered on the sill, leaving a greasy ring beside the window.
Word forms
- Base
- tallow
Explore related collections
Usage notes
Tallow is rendered animal fat, not beeswax; in historical settings it can suggest a greasy, smoky candle.
Practice this word in a sentenceYour margin notes
Keep a thought for later. Sign in to save privately.